Zohran Mamdani’s influence over Democrats put to the test, and other things to watch in Tuesday’s elections

Key Points:

• New York’s primary elections will test Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s influence as he endorses candidates in three House races, including two challenging Democratic incumbents, highlighting ideological battles within the party ahead of the 2028 presidential primary.
• Mamdani, a democratic socialist, supports candidates like Brad Lander, Darializa Avila Chevalier, and Claire Valdez, signaling a push for progressive change amid national momentum for democratic socialists in major cities like Washington, DC, and Los Angeles.
• Former President Trump’s dual endorsements in South Carolina’s Republican governor primary reveal strategic hedging as his backed candidates face tough races, reflecting challenges to his influence following recent endorsement losses.
• Democratic billionaire David Trone faces a high-stakes primary challenge after self-funding over $25 million in previous unsuccessful campaigns, while former Utah state Rep. Phil Lyman, a Trump pardon recipient, could win a primary and secure a congressional seat.
• The crowded Democratic primary in Manhattan’s 12th District features prominent figures including Kennedy family member Jack Schlossberg, anti-Trump former Republican George Conway, and AI critic Alex Bores, illustrating ongoing ideological divisions within the party.